Robert Turtledove Named CMO of H&R Block

Charged With Driving Consumer Consideration of Brand

NEW YORK (AdAge.com) -- Robert Turtledove, former chief marketing officer of executive job-search site TheLadders.com, has joined tax-service provider H&R Block as senior VP-chief marketing officer. Charged with driving increased consumer consideration of the H&R Block brand, he will oversee the Kansas City, Mo.-based company's marketing and communications programs.

"This is a critical time for the H&R Block brand, because it's a critical time in our economy," Mr. Turtledove said in an e-mail. "Taxpayers are hurting, unemployment is still rising and that means people will need more help than ever with their financial lives. H&R Block is a brand that's always been there for Americans, and this year and next year -- when they need it more than ever -- we'll be there to reassure them that they count on H&R Block to help. "

Mr. Turtledove, who has 25 years of consumer-marketing experience, previously held senior marketing positions with MetroMedia Restaurant Group -- which includes Ponderosa, Steak & Ale, Bonanza and Bennigan's -- including senior VP-marketing and concept development and chief concept officer for MetroMedia Family Steakhouses. He also previously served as a marketing VP for Pizza Hut, part of Yum Brands, in both its international and U.S. operations. Additionally, he helped position brands for marketers such as Pepsi and Frito-Lay while working for Tracy Locke Advertising.

"We are delighted to have him come aboard at this important time for H&R Block as we pursue renewed growth in clients and market share," said President-CEO Russ Smyth, in a statement. "We look forward to Robert's expertise and leadership in leveraging the power of our brand, which is one of the most-recognized and iconic in the country."